Durban - Following an extended absence from the 2018 Marine Surfski Series, the series' most successful paddler Hank McGregor will return aiming to reclaim the title he relinquished last year for the 10-leg series starting this Friday at Marine Surf Lifesaving Club.

The star spent a large part of his 2018 season focusing on his Dusi Canoe Marathon triumph with Andy Birkett and then on his K2 World Marathon Championship win with the same partner.

Following the arrival of his second son recently McGregor will have more time at home which is a warning sign for all those that are hoping to target the coveted Marine Series crown.

"I am definitely going to try and do as many of the Marine Series races as I can this year," the international paddling legend said ominously.

"It is a great series to be a part of and is always the best way to start the weekend, especially considering that the course isn't too long so it isn't too taxing on the body and is a great training session."

With ten races on the calendar the series runs from 11 January until 15 March and McGregor is encouraging all those who might be interested to come along and see what all the fuss has been about though the years.

"Even if you aren't sure if you want to paddle just come down and see what the series has to offer.

"I am pretty sure that after you have seen one race you will be keen to paddle the next week!

"You can hop in a double with an experienced paddler and enjoy a Friday evening paddle in Durban's easiest surf break - which is great for people that are keen to start.

"Even if you are a river paddler I still think that it's great cross training and with river levels low at the moment come and paddle in the ocean!

"Barry Lewin (series organiser) always has the paddlers safety at heart and will make sure that you have the best possible conditions to paddle in," McGregor added.

The series will also boast some of the country's top female surfski talent with the likes of current world champion Hayley Nixon, Michelle Burn, Jenna Ward, Bridgitte Hartley and Kyeta Purchase expected to take part throughout the series.

Amongst the talent will also be perennial podium finisher Matt Bouman, as well as Wade Krieger, Gene Prato, Luke Nisbet and Hamish Lovemore.

The Marine Surfski Series Season Starter is this Friday with registration for the series happening at Robsons Brewery on the Point on Thursday 10 January from 16:00-19:00.

Marine Surfski Series 2019 Calendar:

Race 1 - January 11 - Marine Surfski Series Season Starter

Race 2 - January 18 - Race Two

Race 3 - January 25 - Borland Surfski Challenge Presented by Marriott

Race 4 - February 1 - Thule Surfski Challenge

Race 5 - February 8 - Race Five

Race 6 - February 12 - Lettie Love Fund Surfski Challenge

Race 7 - February 22 - Funky Pants Surfski Challenge

Race 8 - March 1 - Gara Surfski Challenge

Race 9 - March 8 - HiQ Surfski Challenge

Race 10 - March 15 - Race 10